Latest news with #Louisianan
New York Post
19-07-2025
- Sport
- New York Post
UFC 318 predictions: Full card picks for all 14 fights on prelims, main
Gambling content 21+. The New York Post may receive an affiliate commission if you sign up through our links. Read our editorial standards for more information. It's the swan song for Dustin Poirier's career as he prepares to retire at home for UFC 318. It will be a spectacle as the Louisianan makes the walk to the octagon one last time alongside rapper Lil Wayne in New Orleans. That's the main event Saturday night, but there are an insane 14 fights on this card. The opening bell is at 6:15 p.m. ET on ESPN, and the main card is available on pay-per-view, starting at 10. Projections from sportsbooks reveal an equitable division between anticipated decisions and finishes, with seven bouts forecasted to conclude prior to the final bell. That's really carried by some mismatches during the prelims, with multiple fights lined up as clear squash spots. Six of the first seven fights have lines -300 or greater. Here are my predictions for the full UFC 318 card: UFC 318 predictions Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier It's a trilogy fight in the lightweight division, and Poirier won the first two fights but still enters Saturday as an underdog at home. Holloway debuted in the UFC against Poirier in 2012, losing by triangle choke, and then was defeated via decision seven years later when fighting for the interim lightweight championship. Poirier being 2-0 and then following that up as an underdog is surprising. Digging into the archives, a piece I wrote in 2021 for Action Network shows a study that I did of all trilogy fights (the third fight in a series between two fighters) to that point. Underdogs rarely won the third fight, with a 4-17 record at the time (a 19 percent win rate). Since then, six trilogy fights have happened. Underdogs have rebounded a bit, going 3-3 (now 7-20 overall), although four straight and five of six have gone to decision. Max Holloway poses on stage during the UFC 318 press conference at Smoothie King Center on July 17, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Zuffa LLC Decisions in the third bout have moved to 51.85 percent in trilogy fights. Given that both of these fighters are past their prime, it's a good spot to target the decision market, considering the familiarity and ages of these two. Don't expect a finish, and if I had to pick a side, I'd absolutely choose Holloway. Pick: Holloway by decision (+140, Fanatics) Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov If you built a fighter whose job it was solely to frustrate you, you'd create Costa. He's built like a Greek god, had excellent striking at his peak, and has a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. The problem with Costa is his lack of killer instinct; oftentimes, he looks as if he's trying to collect a paycheck rather than get knockout wins. At this point, Costa looks at his opponents, smiles/sticks his tongue out at them, throws a low left jab to the body, and does not do much else. That's obviously not a winning formula. Kopylov is not without his problems, either. His lack of defense can be startling, and any time he has been given a step up in competition, he's failed. But Costa is not a good bet, and I have serious reservations about backing him to win any fights at all. Pick: Fight doesn't go the distance (+185, Bet365) Get the lowdown on the Best USA Sports Betting Sites and Apps UFC 318 full card picks for main card and prelims Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier: Holloway by decision (+140, Fanatics) Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov: Fight doesn't go the distance (+185, Bet365) Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez: Fight goes the distance (+165, BetRivers); Rodriguez by decision (+880, Fanatics). Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull: Pitbull by decision (+300, DraftKings). Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber: Johnson moneyline (+425, FanDuel). Kyler Phillips vs. Vinicius Oliveira: Under 2.5 rounds (+175, DraftKings). Marvin Vettori vs. Brendan Allen: Vettori ATS +3.5 (-170, BetMGM). Francisco Prado vs. Nikolay Veretennikov: Veretennikov wins in over 1.5 rounds (+180, DraftKings). Ateba Gautier vs. Robert Valentin: Fight goes the distance (+520, FanDuel). Adam Fugitt vs. Islam Dulatov: Fight starts round 2 (-118, FanDuel). Jimmy Crute vs. Marcin Prachnio: Crute by KO/TKO (+400, FanDuel). Ryan Spann vs. Lukasz Brzeski: Brzeski moneyline (+186, Bet365). Brunno Ferreira vs. Jackson McVey: Over 1.5 rounds (+195, DraftKings). Carli Judice vs. Nicolle Caliari: Fight goes the distance (-200, BetRivers). Why Trust New York Post Betting Erich Richter is a brazilian jiu-jitsu blue belt but he has a black belt in MMA betting. During the football season he's showcased massive profits at The Post in the player prop market the last two seasons. While constantly betting long shots, his return on investment is 30.15 percent since 2022.
New York Post
11-07-2025
- Politics
- New York Post
Sen. Bill Cassidy's campaign touts record-setting $9M war chest as he fends off primary challengers
WASHINGTON — Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) raised $2.12 million in the second quarter of this year as he seeks a third term in a potential head-to-head race against the Pelican State's Democratic governor, John Bel Edwards. Cassidy, 67, has a total of $9 million cash on hand — the most of any Senate candidate at this point in the 2026 cycle — in his war chest, according to his campaign. 'I'm grateful for the outpouring of support from so many who want proven conservative leadership that delivers for Louisiana,' Cassidy said in a statement. 3 Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) raised $2.12 million in second quarter fundraising as he looks to fend off primary challenges and prepares for a potential head-to-head race against his state's Democratic governor John Bell Edwards. Getty Images 'I am proud to have worked with President Trump to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill and will continue to deliver real results that put Louisiana First.' A recent Ragnar Research survey of likely Republican voters showed Cassidy lapping rivals John Fleming, the current Louisiana treasurer, and Randall Arrington, a retired naval aviator. If the primary were held today, Cassidy would win 45% of the vote, Fleming would net 18% and Arrington just 3%. 3 Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming, waves as he is introduced during the swearing in of the Louisiana state legislature in Baton Rouge, La., Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. AP The results come as Louisiana Democratic Party executive director Dadrius Lanus predicted in a Wednesday interview Cassidy 'will have a Democratic strong competitor or opponent' in November 2026 — but declined to reveal who that would be. Trump praised Cassidy at the White House in May for the role he'd played in moving his agenda legislation forward, but the two had previously been at odds over Cassidy's vote to convict the 45th president of a charge of incitement of insurrection in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. In April 2024, the once and future president lashed out, calling the Louisianan 'one of the worst senators in the United States Senate' after Cassidy insisted Trump 'can not' prevail in that year's presidential election. 3 Trump praised Cassidy at the White House for the role he'd played in moving that legislation in May. AFP via Getty Images 'Senator Cassidy is a proven, Louisiana First, conservative fighter, and Louisianians know he has worked hard to deliver for the state,' said campaign manager Katie Larkin. 'These latest fundraising numbers are another indication of the tremendous enthusiasm that's been building for his reelection campaign.' 'Cassidy has the support, resources, and momentum necessary to earn another term as the Senior U.S. Senator from Louisiana.'
American Press
21-05-2025
- General
- American Press
Daniel 'Danny' Kingston Johnson
Daniel Kingston Johnson, affectionately known as Danny, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, in Pensacola, Fla., at the age of 64. Born on May 25, 1960, in Lake Charles, La. A proud graduate of St. Louis High School, Danny went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Tulane University, where he was a proud member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He later settled in Pensacola, where he built successful businesses as the owner of Dixie Health of Pensacola, Inc. dba Smoothie King. Danny married the love of his life, Apryle Johnson, on Jan. 11, 2002. He was a devoted father to Jeremy Johnson (Cierra Urso) and Isabella Johnson, and while never seeing him in person, loved his grandson, James Urso. He also spoiled and had fun with his new furbabies, Bijoux and Liloux. He loved grilling the perfect steak, savoring a good cigar, sipping fine wine, and passionately discussing politics, especially while watching Fox News. He was an opinionated Republican, a faithful Catholic, and a straight shooter with a sharp wit and a warm heart. A proud Louisianan at heart, he remained a member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church before relocating to Florida, where he worshipped at St. Paul Catholic Church in Pensacola. He is survived by his wife, Apryle; his children, Jeremy (Cierra) and Isabella; his grandson, James; his sister, Cassie Watson; and his wide circle of in-laws and extended family, Harley Shuff, Richard LeFranc, Josh (Erica) LeFranc, Ricky LeFranc, Kimberley Shuff (Natalie McCauley), Stacie Shuff (John Hymel), Jenny (Charles) Elbert, and Zoie LeFranc. He is also survived by his cherished 'framily,' Laura Darbonne (Marciano), and numerous nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly; Maegan Burrage (Brad), Marissa Terry (Jesse), Landon Watson, Saije Shuff, Deven Shuff, Zoe Perkins, Emmalee Granger, Lanie LeFranc, Joshua LeFranc, Kaleb Belton, Noah LeFranc, Kynlee Hawkins, Slade Hawkins, Indie Shuff, Venise Shuff, and Ahna Traske. Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Dixie and Al Johnson, his mother-in-law, Connie Shuff, and his dearly loved pup, Olivia. His favorite movies were Battleship and Guardians of the Galaxy, and no song got him going like AC/DC's Thunderstruck or Jimmy Buffett's Volcano. He lived his life unapologetically and with passion. His heart was as big as his opinions, and his love for his family was boundless. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him. Family to celebrate his life on what would have been his 65th birthday in the chapel of Johnson Funeral Home, Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 3 p.m. Visitation to be held Sunday, May 25, 2025 beginning 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m., with a Rosary to be prayed at 2:30 p.m. We invite you share a fond memory or sentiment of condolence on our website
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Senators sound off as Supreme Court hears case on nationwide injunctions
With the Supreme Court hearing its first case Thursday relating to nationwide injunctions – federal district court judges issuing rulings that affect the entire country – several proponents of a plan to end the practice are speaking out. Senate Judiciary Committee member John Kennedy, R-La., said it appears to be a case of the "tail wag[ging] the dog," in that it is the judiciary's job to adjudicate the law, not create it. "When Congress makes a law, the federal judges are supposed to follow it. When the president exercises his power under Article II, judges are supposed to follow it, so long as it's lawful," Kennedy said. "They can't just overturn it because they don't agree with it, and that's what a lot of these federal judges are doing." Sen John Kennedy: Why Scotus Should Seize Opportunity To Eliminate Universal Injunctions In a Fox News Opinion piece this week, Kennedy noted "universal injunctions" have been around since the 1960s, when judges began enjoining the government from enforcing certain policies against "anyone, anywhere" – adding they let a judge say "sayonara" to laws, regulations or even whims of a president they don't like. Read On The Fox News App Kennedy noted that there have only been 27 such injunctions from JFK through Y2K. A review showed none was lodged against Presidents George H.W. Bush or Bill Clinton – but began to creep in during the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations. With nearly 100 rulings against President Donald Trump in his one-and-an-eighth terms, Kennedy said some judges seem to want to "rewrite the Constitution every other Thursday, to advance some social or economic agenda that they can't get by the voters: But the law is the law." "And a universal injunction was created out of whole cloth. There's no statutory basis for a universal injunction," the Louisianan said, echoing the analysis in his op-ed. Given his penchant for often colorful and probing questions of judiciary appointees, Kennedy was also asked how an unfavorable ruling from the Supreme Court could affect nominee choices and further politicize the process. "All the nominees in front of us are going to be asked about universal injunctions, I can tell you. And if they try to dodge and bob and weave and run like a hound on the treeline, when it's my turn to question them I'm not going to let them. I'm not asking how they would rule in a particular case, but I want to know what they think the legal basis is for a universal injunction, because there is none: I want to hear what they had to say." Sen. Tommy Tuberville – who joined Kennedy and others in supporting Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley's Judicial Relief Clarification Act (JCRA) to end the practice – said such "woke" judges should consider retiring their robes. Senator Warns Of 'Unconstitutional Overreach' Ahead Of Scotus Showdown "President Trump campaigned on a promise to deport dangerous criminals and won in a landslide. In just four months, he has already delivered the most secure border in American history," Tuberville told Fox News Digital. "Unfortunately, we have radical left judges who are allowing their personal beliefs to supersede the will of 77 million Americans who voted for President Trump and his agenda," the former Auburn football legend added. "If a judge wants to make political decisions, they should run for office. Otherwise, they should focus on upholding the Constitution and enforcing the law." Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, also said he supports the JCRA, calling nationwide injunctions "a real problem." "[A] single federal judge can essentially stop a popularly elected president dead in his tracks by a temporary restraining order, which doesn't just deal with the parties in front of the judge, but literally the whole nation." "If the Supreme Court doesn't do it in the context of this birthright citizenship case, then Congress needs to continue to pursue this via Senator Grassley's bill and other means." While the case argued Thursday involves an injunction with regard to the interpretation of birthright citizenship in the law, Cornyn said that the court will determine the scope of that particular order, but that the idea of nationwide injunctions is being abused. For his part, Grassley previously told Fox News Digital that such injunctions "are an unconstitutional abuse of judicial power."Original article source: Senators sound off as Supreme Court hears case on nationwide injunctions
Forbes
25-03-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Industrial Only Electricity Deregulation Will Be A Disaster For All Louisianans
The best way to avoid a tariff is to produce steel in the U.S. This picture taken on February 13, ... More 2025 shows the main gate of a factory of South Korea's steelmaker Hyundai Steel in Pohang. (Photo by Jung Yeon-je / AFP) / TO GO WITH AFP STORY Skorea-US-trade-tariffs-steel / REPORTAGE BY Claire LEE (Photo by JUNG YEON-JE/AFP via Getty Images) Louisiana finds itself at the epicenter of economic development in the Gulf South with two recent mega-projects announced—Meta and Hyundai Steel. At the same time, the LPSC is considering two proposals to 'deregulate' or 'restructure' how power is provided. One proposal is 'full deregulation' that would allow every utility customer in Louisiana to shop around for their electrical supply, and the second is 'partial deregulation' which would only allow the large industrial customers to shop for power supply. Full deregulation has been tried across the nation, and in nearly every fully deregulated state, customers pay higher electricity rates than those living in regulated states. This is because in regulated states, state agencies like the LPSC can ensure rates are fair and stable, and that utilities build enough power generation to meet every contingency. There is less known about this style of proposed partial deregulation, and only a few states, such as Nevada and Michigan, have gone down that road. Now, rumor has it, the casinos in Nevada who pushed for partial deregulation are looking to end that failed experiment because it has not reduced their electricity costs. In Michigan, the public service commission is fighting to restore resource adequacy after partial deregulation resulted in reliability issues and cost shifts to regulated customers when the unregulated energy providers failed to procure regional capacity. What would a partial deregulation in Louisiana mean? Increased prices and reduced reliability for all consumers. And it would create an administrative headache for the LPSC that is larger than they can imagine. The Commissioners just need to look around at how well 'deregulation' has worked for other states. Interestingly, the biggest push for partial deregulation is not being led by the industrial customers like the petrochemical plants operating along the Mississippi River, but rather, by the energy companies that, through partial deregulation, would be allowed to build the power generation that those large industrial customers or data centers would otherwise purchase from regulated utilities. Amplify Louisiana, the lobbying group of those energy companies hoping to build those facilities, says: 'The LPSC should welcome partnerships with private investment to benefit ratepayers. In fact, some of the largest independent power producers in the U.S. are willing to invest in Louisiana and work with the industrials to serve those needs.' The first question to be answered, what does this mean for the average Louisianan? The electricity charged to average consumers will not be based on the cost-savings realized by the industrial users with bespoke power plants. By contrast, the Amplify members developers will do very well. The industrial companies may also think that by bringing generators inside their fences or buying from an independent power producer that they can save money by not paying the usual cost per kilowatt-hour to maintain transmission lines, distribution wires, and the upkeep for the current portfolio of generators. Except these industrial plants want to keep the wires and state's generators as a backup that is subsidized and paid for by all the other consumers. How is that fair? Electricity infrastructure across the country, including in Louisiana, has needed to be renewed, and upgraded for many years—just like our roadways, water, and sewer services. Removing Louisiana's industrial base from the customer base will disproportionately place the financial burden of maintaining grid reliability on residential and small business customers, and an electricity grid is only as strong as its weakest link. There will be a greater likelihood of a broader grid failure. More importantly, deregulation will not be a win-win for the industrial customers. Without adequate onsite backup generation equal to what is necessary to run their plants, they will rely upon a weakened grid during their regular maintenance of onsite power plants. If Louisiana adopts a Texas-like deregulation scheme, the industrials could pay as much as 40-times average electricity rates to buy electricity during peak demand—a price spike that will extend across the state. By weakening the larger public grid for their own corporate benefit, the industrials will needlessly endanger the property and lives of their own families and communities. It is a matter of public safety, and with Louisiana's position in the America's energy supply chain, it is a matter of national security. Finally, since the advent of deregulation, there has been an explosion of 'new products' that seek to give an incentive here or an incentive there with each designed to tweak the regulated market into something resembling what a competitive market provides. That is, the regulators are trying to replicate what a buyer and seller commit to do: a transaction with positive economics and accountability. But deregulation or restructuring has been a disaster across the nation from conservative states to the most liberal like California. In Texas, the agency that manages the electric supply, called ERCOT, has market rules that encompass 2,125 pages and are tweaked almost constantly. To be clear, despite all this bureaucratic oversight, ERCOT has failed miserably killing hundreds during the February 2021 winter freeze and costing the state more than $100 billion in economic losses. Adding insult to injury, the Texas legislature approved billions of dollars in bailouts to the electric utilities that consumers will be paying off over years. In 2023 alone, Texas overcharged consumers $12 billion, and the grid is still not fixed. The LSPC is not equipped to manage such an unwieldy beast and should not consider allowing this money grab to occur. In Louisiana, 'partial deregulation' should be a non-starter.
